Giant Kingfisher Trail, Wilderness, Garden Route
Description
The popular Giant Kingfisher Trail leads to a stunning little waterfall that is fabulous for a swim and picnic. A little effort is required at the start but the going gets easier on this well-maintained SANParks trail that features an extensive boardwalk.
At strategic places along the route built-in benches have been provided so there are opportunities for hikers to stop and rest or to quietly absorb and enjoy the sights and sounds around them.
As you approach the waterfall the boardwalk starts to climb quite steeply and then you descend quickly onto a rocky area through which waterfalls gush and some sizable pools form that are ideal for swimming. Don’t be misled by the dark colour of it. There is nothing wrong – it is merely coloured by the forest and fynbos vegetation through which it passes.
On the return trip you may notice some very interesting and striking rock formations of Table Mountain Quartzite, right next to the boardwalk. It is more noticeable on the return walk.
Up river you are conscious of the soothing sound of a shallow stream running over rocks and there are some picturesque glimpses of transparent water flowing next to the trail below you.
Close to the end, windows in the thick vegetation allow views of the idyllic and popular Wilderness campsite on the opposite banks of the river.
Start at the Ebb and Flow offices and present your Wild Card or buy a permit to receive a trail map. Listen to the calls of numerous forest birds and look out for various kingfishers.
If you’re lucky, you may spot the Giant Kingfisher for which the trail is named.
End
There and back
Distance
3.5km
Duration
3 – 4 hours
Rating
Intermediate
Permits
R20 conservation fee at Ebb & Flow. Free for Wild Card members.
Take With
You will need the following:
- hat
- sunglasses
- good walking shoes
- insect repellent
- refreshments and water
- camera
- binoculars
- swimming gear
Getting There
Turn left into Dumbelton from the N2 just outside Wilderness (Knysna side). Follow the paved road to Ebb & Flow rest camp. There is parking at the offices.
| More info on the town of Knysna | More info on the Garden Route area |
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